Man Loses Life in Palm Springs Pedestrian Crash

A tragic pedestrian collision in Palm Springs on Friday night, September 26, 2025, claimed the life of a man visiting from out of state. According to preliminary information from the Palm Springs Police Department, the crash occurred around 9:35 p.m. near Palm Canyon Drive and Via Las Palmas. The pedestrian was crossing eastbound in a marked crosswalk when a southbound vehicle struck him. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officials indicated that the crosswalk is equipped with a lighting system intended to alert drivers to crossing pedestrians, but that system was not activated at the time of the collision. Police also reported that drugs and alcohol did not appear to be factors. Authorities have not released additional identifying information for the pedestrian or the driver as the investigation remains ongoing.

Avian Law Group extends our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones affected by this loss. Below, we outline what is known at this stage, explain how California law approaches pedestrian crashes, and provide practical guidance on steps families can take to safeguard their legal rights and obtain answers.

What We Know About the Collision

- Date and time: Friday, September 26, 2025, at approximately 9:35 p.m.
- Location: Palm Canyon Drive near Via Las Palmas, Palm Springs, CA
- Circumstances: The pedestrian was reportedly crossing eastbound in a marked crosswalk when he was struck by a southbound vehicle.
- Crosswalk equipment: The crosswalk includes a pedestrian-activated lighting system; it was not used at the time.
- Impairment: Police state that neither drugs nor alcohol appear to be involved.
- Status: The investigation is ongoing, and officials have not released additional identifying details.

Ongoing Investigation and Potential Contributing Factors

Crash investigations typically consider a range of factors, especially for nighttime incidents:
- Visibility and lighting: Dark conditions, glare from oncoming traffic, and roadway lighting can impact visibility at 9:35 p.m.
- Driver behavior: Speed, attentiveness, headlight use, and compliance with traffic laws are closely reviewed.
- Crosswalk controls: If a crosswalk has a beacon or lighting system, investigators may examine whether it was functioning, visible, and properly maintained, as well as whether it was activated.
- Roadway design: Signage, lane markings, sight lines, and ambient lighting can affect driver and pedestrian behavior.
- Pedestrian movement: Investigators analyze pedestrian position, timing, and whether any sudden entry into the roadway occurred.

Even when a crosswalk beacon is available, California law continues to impose duties on drivers to exercise due care. The presence or absence of beacon activation is one of many facts considered and does not by itself determine fault.

Avian Law Group helps families of wrongful death victims get the justice they deserve. We will help you with compassion and care, please contact us for legal guidance and support if your loved one has fallen victim to a traffic accident.